Cristhian Mosquera has highlighted Arsenal’s renewed defensive mindset as a major factor in their outstanding start to the season.
The centre-back, who arrived from Valencia in the summer for an initial £13 million, believes this collective mentality has underpinned the side’s resilience.
Arsenal sit top of the Premier League after 11 matches, having made a superb opening to the campaign.
Their impressive domestic form has been matched in Europe, where they have won all three of their Champions League fixtures, and in the Carabao Cup, where they have progressed to the quarter-finals.
Mikel Arteta’s team have conceded only five goals in all competitions, a statistic Mosquera attributes to the squad’s unified approach to defending.
He explained that the emphasis on structure, intensity and togetherness has created a platform for consistent performances across every competition.
“We’re very, very aware of what we have to do,” Mosquera told The Guardian.
“The goal is our house and no one is allowed in, no one is allowed near our area.
“Then be dangerous in attack. There’s a tactical element of course – the movements – but I think a lot of it is a mental thing, attitude. Our house: do not enter.
“Inside the dressing room, we believe in ourselves. We know what we’re capable of, we know where we can go.
“The manager and staff tell us: to enjoy defending. Those typical actions where you make a tackle or a block: celebrate them. That gives life to the team, brings energy.
“That’s important and this group has it. Look at those moments when the entire team is running back. That’s a fundamental part of this season.”
Mosquera, who grew up supporting Arsenal, also revealed that Arteta was pivotal in securing his move to north London.
